Former Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Pon. Manickavel has raised serious concerns about the functioning of the Temple Security Force and has called for its disbandment. Speaking out on the issue, Manickavel pointed out that the Temple Security Force has received over Rs. 324 crore in funding from 2005 to 2019. Despite this expenditure, thefts in temples have continued, with over 500 idol thefts reported.
He specifically noted that between 2012 and 2018, the number of security personnel in the force reduced to 748, while their salaries saw an increase from Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 5,000. Despite such large investments, no significant improvement has been made in curbing crimes like idol thefts or temple robberies. Manickavel further criticized the inefficiency of the force, pointing out that 102 hundis (donation boxes) had been looted and that the security force had failed to identify culprits.
Additionally, Manickavel pointed out that the funds used for the temple security force are taxpayer money, with the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HR&CE) Department collecting Rs. 55 crore every month. The department’s officials reportedly receive annual salaries amounting to Rs. 428 crore, which he labeled as unjust. He argued that the HR&CE Department, which oversees temples, is operating without accountability and urged for its dissolution.
In conclusion, Manickavel called for a thorough review of the temple security system and the functioning of the HR&CE, asserting that such resources should be directed towards more effective governance and the welfare of the community.
